Did you know that poor posture can increase feelings of depression, increase stress levels, and influence confidence? In a 2016 study, 74 participants were randomly assigned 6to either a slumped or upright seated posture to determine if postures affect stress responses. According to the results, the upright participants reported higher self-esteem, more arousal, better mood, and lower fear, compared to slumped participants.
It Goes Both Ways
A philosophy, known as embodied cognition, states that the relationship between our mind and body runs both ways, meaning our mind influences the way our body reacts, but the form of our body also triggers our mind. Just like happiness leads to smiling, but smiling also leads to happiness. The same is true when it comes to posture: for example, you’re sitting a certain way because you’re sad, but also that you’re sad because you’re sitting a certain way.
Standing Tall
When it comes to posture, our ultimate feeling has a lot to do with the associations we have with being taller. For example, if you take two people and you put one on a chair that’s above the other person, the one that’s looking down will feel more powerful because of associations we have with height and the power that is automatically triggered within. The function of your body posture tells the brain that you’re powerful, which, in turn, affects your attitude.
Sit Up Straight
Sitting upright can make you feel more alert and enthusiastic, feel less fearful, and have higher self-esteem after a stressful task.
The human body craves alignment, so next time you’re feeling sad and depressed, pay close attention to your posture. The big payoff could be more energy, increased confidence, decreased anxiety, and an overall better mood..
The team at Benningfield & Associates are dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal well-being through natural methods including spinal adjustment, muscle rehabilitation and physical therapy. Not only do we diagnose and treat a wide range of chiropractic conditions, we believe in educating our patients. We are committed to helping our patients improve the quality of their lives by providing advanced care in a friendly atmosphere. If you are experiencing pain due to poor posture, please visit the Benningfield & Associates website or call 309.692.6800.
Sources:
http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2014-37739-001
https://www.amplifeied.com/post/posture-mood/17b53d65-a1c0-4b94-b8d4-58cc1beb5374
http://time.com/3394589/slumping-makes-you-sad/
https://pixabay.com/en/worried-girl-woman-waiting-sitting-413690/